George R. Swecker

George R. Swecker

He was born in the Blue Grass Valley, May 2, 1926, to the late Jennings Judy and Maria Tate (Sterrett) Swecker.

Mr. Swecker was a prominent farmer, part owner and longtime manager of Monterey Livestock Sales until his retirement in 1997. Additionally, he was active during those years in the Virginia Cattleman's Association.

At the age of 23, he joined the Blue Grass Valley Bank's Board of Directors filling the seat of his grandfather, George Eagle Swecker. He served several terms as president over a span of 55 years.

A graduate of Blue Grass High School, he would later go on to serve several terms on the Highland County School Board. A devout Presbyterian, he was a member and elder in the former Crabbottom Presbyterian Church until its closing in 1994, at which time he transferred membership to the Monterey Presbyterian Church.

A Master Mason, he was a member and past master of Highland Lodge No. 110 A. F. & A. M. Mr. Swecker was also a charter member and past president of the Blue Grass Ruritan Club.

November 7, 1953, he married Nancy Pence (Simmons) Swecker, also of Blue Grass. She preceded him in death July 24, 1998. He was also predeceased by a sister, Frances Celia Crown and two brothers, William Sterrett Swecker and Robert Tate Swecker.

He is survived by two daughters, Susan Reid Swecker of Richmond and Elly Swecker of Harrisonburg; two beloved grandchildren, Brent Arbogast of Harrisonburg and Charlotte Arbogast of Richmond; two sisters, Betty Ann Abbott of Bedford and Mary Judy Riddick of Franklin; one brother, James L Swecker of Monterey, as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. , Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, at Monterey Presbyterian Church with the Revs. Melissa Litrel Harmon and C. William "Bill" Cox officiating. Burial will follow in the Blue Grass Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 - 8 pm, Friday Jan. 11, 2013, at Obaugh Funeral Home in McDowell.

In accordance with Mr. Swecker's wish, his nephews will serve as active pallbearers.